Scots woman felt ‘down and very alone’ before charity’s Christmas card campaign

A Scottish woman has shared how a charity’s Christmas card campaign helped lift her spirits after feeling “down and very alone”. Vintage Vibes, a charity supporting lonely and isolated older people, has launched its Christmas Card Appeal in Edinburgh to ensure that elderly individuals do not feel forgotten during the festive season. The charity distributes personalised cards to those in need, allowing families to participate in spreading joy. Many of the older people supported by Vintage Vibes enjoy receiving children’s drawings and crafts along with their cards, according to Edinburgh Live.

One VIP named Sheila expressed her gratitude for the impact Vintage Vibes has had on her life. She shared, “I joined Vintage Vibes over a year ago. At that time, I was feeling a bit down and very alone. I then got introduced to my friendship volunteer, Nicky, and we never stopped talking and laughing.” Sheila went on to describe the joy she felt upon receiving Christmas cards from local school children, expressing how deeply it touched her heart. She emphasised the positive impact Vintage Vibes has made in combating loneliness and recommended others to participate in the charity’s initiatives.

Since 2017, Vintage Vibes has encouraged local residents to send special Christmas cards to isolated older individuals by providing profiles of lonely individuals in the city. These personalised cards have a profound impact on the recipients, with some choosing to keep them on display for months following the holiday season. The charity is facing funding challenges, making community support crucial for sustaining its vital services.

Georgia Artus, Development Manager at Vintage Vibes, highlighted the significance of the Christmas Card Appeal in brightening the lives of older people during the festive period. Despite funding cuts, the charity remains dedicated to its mission of promoting companionship and happiness among the elderly population. Neil Hay, CEO Space (parent charity), commended Vintage Vibes for its growth and positive influence on the community, emphasising the importance of love and compassion in transforming lives.

Vintage Vibes encourages the public to participate in their campaign and support their efforts in helping older people lead fulfilling lives. The charity emphasises the simplicity and fulfilment of getting involved and advocates for ongoing community support to sustain their initiatives. For those interested in learning more about the Christmas Card Appeal or supporting Vintage Vibes, further details can be found on their website.

In conclusion, Vintage Vibes’ Christmas Card Appeal showcases the power of kindness and connection in combating loneliness among elderly individuals. The initiative not only brings joy to recipients during the festive season but also fosters lasting relationships and meaningful support within the community. Through community engagement and support, Vintage Vibes continues to make a positive impact in enriching the lives of older people in Edinburgh.